This technical position is responsible for determining and re-determining eligibility for a variety of public assistance programs, including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medical Assistance, Energy Assistance, and other social services benefit programs. Work is performed in accordance with established policies, procedures, and regulatory guidelines; however, the role requires the use of independent judgment, particularly when assessing social and environmental factors that may influence eligibility.
The employee conducts interviews with individuals and families seeking assistance, gathers and verifies required information, evaluates ongoing eligibility, and provides clear explanations of available benefit programs. The position also involves assessing needs, identifying reasons for requesting assistance, and performing other related duties as assigned. In addition, the employee assists in providing emergency shelter services as mandated.
The Benefit Programs Specialist II reports directly to the Benefit Programs Supervisor or the Assistant Director of Benefits.
Working knowledge of: public service organization practices; principles of economics and basic human behavior; full range of financial assistance programs necessary to determine and re‑determine eligibility for benefits; and State, Local, and Federal regulations, guidelines, and policies governing social services eligibility, as well as proficiency in applying mathematical concepts including percentages, formulas, and averages to accurately perform eligibility calculations, interviewing techniques, including effective data collection, verification, and investigative inquiry.
Skills in: operating a personal computer and the associated office and agency software.
Demonstrated ability to: communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with a wide range of individuals including customers, employers, court personnel, and medical professionals, both in person and by telephone, conduct interviews, gather and verify information, reassess client circumstances, and make appropriate referrals; determine client ownership share in applicable situations and perform accurate mathematical computations; Ability to analyze information, identify missing data or inconsistencies from multiple sources, and apply sound judgment and common‑sense understanding to follow written and oral instructions; use various automated systems and technologies to establish and maintain case records; access data related to estates, retirement accounts, real estate, and reports; and manipulate data as needed; Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to professional ethics, demonstrate capacity to exercise discretion, tact, resourcefulness, and sound judgment in problem‑solving and decision‑making, establish and maintain effective working relationships with applicants, recipients, partner agencies, colleagues, and the public, while maintaining a positive and professional demeanor in sometimes stressful situations.
Minimum of a high school diploma, supplemented by additional education and experience in benefit programs, or a combination of education and financial or related human services experience.
Applicants may be subject to a Criminal History Background search, Central Registry search,
DMV/driving record check, and/or pre-employment drug screen.
This investigation may include local agency checks, employment verification and references, verification of education (relevant to employment), credit checks (relevant to employment) and other checks requested by the hiring authority. All offers are contingent upon satisfactory results of the required checks and screening.
All employees must have a valid driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Driving record must meet agency requirements.
Employee must be willing to work in the community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency.
APPLICATIONS, RESUMES, AND REFERENCES FOR THIS POSITION MUST BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY THROUGH THIS WEBSITE. A RESUME MUST BE PROVIDED WITH THE APPLICATION. MAILED, EMAILED, FAXED, OR HAND DELIVERED APPLICATIONS AND RESUMES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.THIS WEBSITE WILL PROVIDE A CONFIRMATION RECEIPT WHEN THE APPLICATION IS SUBMITTED FOR CONSIDERATION.
Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information provided. Applications/Resumes must include complete work history.
The Commonwealth of Virginia is located in the South Atlantic region of the United States. It was the 10th state to be admitted to the Union on June 25, 1788. Home to approximately 8 million residents, Virginia is the 12th most populous state in the United States. The capital is Richmond, and its most populous city is Virginia Beach.
The narrative history of the Commonwealth of Virginia often begins with the founding of Jamestown in 1607, near what is now modern day Williamsburg, Virginia. Jamestown became the first permanent English settlement in the New World, and the Virginia General Assembly, established on July 30, 1619, is now recognized as the oldest legislative body in the western hemisphere. When Virginia became a royal colony in 1624, the robust tobacco trade that had been developing in Virginia helped establish the American colonies as a powerful economic force. During the American Revolution, Virginia witnessed the final surrender of British forces at Yorktown and later became known as the birthplace of many revolution-era figures and future American presidents, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. To date, 8 United States presidents have been born in Virginia, more than in any other state.
The modern government of Virginia is nearly identical in structure to the federal government, and is divided into 3 branches, these being the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches. The Virginia General Assembly is comprised of the 100-member House of Delegates and the 40-member Senate. A governor and lieutenant governor are elected every 4 years. Governors cannot be elected to or serve consecutive terms. Virginia’s judicial system consists of the Supreme Court of Virginia and the Court of Appeals of Virginia, the Circuit Courts, and the lower General District Courts and the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts. Virginia has 13 electoral votes in presidential elections, and possesses 11 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
